Safe or Sorry?

Today’s topic is slightly uncomfortable even for me, and I rarely admit that I want to talk about going to get tested for STD’s. For most young women and men, it is an uncomfortable topic, but it shouldn’t be. Getting tested regularly is an exceptionally healthy habit, especially when starting a new relationship, or ending a relationship.

Society has made us believe it is something uncomfortable and weird, or something only “high risk” people should be doing. I once asked a nurse what high risk meant because she had told me I wasn’t in a high-risk group, I wanted to know exactly what she meant. She said it meant people who were sex workers, people from countries with higher rates of std’s, and drug addicts. I’m sure the list went on, but those were the main ones she pointed out.

The first time I went to go get tested, the nurse told me I really didn’t need to do a blood test because I wasn’t in a high-risk group. I thought about it for a minute and decided I still wanted to do it because I genuinely believe it is essential to know what’s going on inside my body and making sure I am healthy in all aspects in my life. I respect myself too much not to get tested. I felt like I had to persuade her that this was the right choice for me.

Here is the break down you guys, you should be practicing safe sex till you and your partner get tested. By safe sex I mean using condoms, especially if you have multiple partners! Even after getting tested it is important to practice being safe.

Why you should get tested:

1. Worrying about it is much worse than knowing.

2. It does not mean your spouse cheated. You can get std’s, and they can stay in your system without treatment for quite some time.

3. It is not time-consuming. It is quick and easy now.

4. Because respecting yourself and your partner will create a stronger relationship.

5. Sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.

6. Because at some point you will have sex and it’s okay to play it safe.

7. You can choose to be healthy.

I have talked to my friends openly about getting tested, and I generally think the more open I am about what happens the more likely they are to make healthy life choices too. This topic should not be a taboo in society, since when did health become so embarrassing to talk about? This is 2019, young women can have sex and get tested, young men can have sex and get tested, it’s part of the natural cycle. Keeping this topic on the down low doesn’t help anyone at all. Pretending the younger generations won’t have sex is making an active choice to turn a blind eye. The only way to spread awareness is to talk openly about issues that are deemed shameful.

Thank you! I think it is super important to talk about it especially with teenagers. We all know it will happen and to be realistic and talk about the importance of being safe is better than telling them not to do anything at all.

I would think it’s a really important part of self care these days if you’re not in a committed relationship. I know a family member was visiting me and her and a friend of mine met and decided to date. She said straight out – I’m not sleeping with you until I see test results that you don’t have any STD’s. I was shocked how bold she was about it – just threw it out there like she was asking him to pass her the potatoes. His reply – “Sure – no problem – same back though” I’ve been married forever so this kind of conversation was new to me. It’s a changing world and clearly people who value their health are totally ok with saying so. Great post.

I commend you on recognizing the importance of being tested for STI’s. It’s hard to believe, but yet it is true that medical professionals encourage their patients to only look after their health in “high risk behaviors”. In my opinion it’s an old protocol they follow, or a request from our insurance companies.
Each person should make this decision for themselves, and I celebrate you in my mind. Kudos!!